Delhi Elections 2025: Riots Accused Tahir Hussain, Contesting On AIMIM Ticket, Gets Custody Parole To Campaign

The Supreme Court has allowed Tahir Hussain, an AIMIM candidate and accused in the Delhi riots case, to be released on custody parole. This decision permits him to campaign for the Delhi Assembly elections from 29 January to 3 February. The court specified that Hussain must cover all costs related to his custody parole, including expenses for police officials, a jail van, and escort services.

Hussain is contesting from the Mustafabad seat in Delhi and had requested interim bail to participate in the election campaign. However, a division bench of Justice Pankaj Mittal and Justice Ahsanuddin Amanulla delivered a split verdict on this matter. Justice Mittal opposed granting bail, while Justice Amanullah supported it with specific conditions.

Special Bench Formation

To address the divided opinion, Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna formed a special bench. This bench includes Justice Vikram Nath, Justice Sanjay Karol, and Justice Sandeep Mehta. They were tasked with resolving the issue regarding Hussain's request for bail during the election period.

The court stated that Hussain would be released from jail according to the jail manual once he deposits approximately 2 lakh rupees for 12 hours of parole expenses. This amount covers all necessary arrangements for his temporary release.

Background of Accusations

Tahir Hussain faces accusations related to the February 2020 riots in Delhi. These riots are linked to the death of Ankit Sharma, an Intelligence Bureau staff member. The legal proceedings against Hussain have been ongoing since then.

The decision by the Supreme Court highlights the complexities involved in balancing legal proceedings with electoral rights.